Personal Reflections
Bart De Gols
If You Love Dogs, Buy a Goldfish !

If you love dogs, buy a goldfish. It sounds counterintuitive, I know, but hear me out. Dogs are incredible creatures, full of personality, intelligence, and charm—but they’re not accessories, nor are they little humans in fur suits. Too often, we bring a dog home and expect it to fit into our lives as easily as a new couch or houseplant. We assume they’ll adapt to our schedules, tolerate every guest, and generally go with the flow, all while remaining endlessly loyal and affectionate. But dogs aren’t wired to live passively in our world. They need more than food, water, and a soft place to sleep. They need structure, guidance, and a bit of respect for who they truly are—animals with instincts and needs that don’t always align with our expectations.

In this article, I explore what it means to be a steward rather than a mere owner when it comes to dogs. Becoming a steward means understanding and meeting our dogs’ needs, recognizing that they are sentient beings with unique personalities and preferences. True stewardship goes beyond basic care and training; it’s about creating an environment where a dog feels secure, valued, and fulfilled. Dogs need routines that make sense to them, guidance that respects their instincts, and a life that offers more than just a passive existence in a human household. And if that sounds like too much responsibility, there’s no shame in choosing a pet that doesn’t require quite so much—like a goldfish, perhaps.

By the end, I hope to leave you with a deeper understanding of what dogs truly need to thrive and maybe a smile at the thought of swapping your dog for a simpler, less demanding companion. Because while a goldfish might offer peace and simplicity, it will never give you the kind of partnership, loyalty, and joy that a dog brings. So, are you a dog steward or more a goldfish-fishtank kind of person?

If You Love Dogs, Buy a Goldfish !
Animal Behavioral Sciene , Behavior Modification, Training Techniques
Bart De Gols
Mind Over Manner: From Behavioral Conditioning ...

In this article, I present my approach to dog training that moves beyond traditional behavioral conditioning to embrace the complex neuroscience of canine cognition. Through the years I've discovered that successful training isn't merely about teaching and reinforcing behaviors—it's about understanding and managing the dog's brain state to optimize learning and promote lasting behavioral change. This paradigm shift represents a fundamental departure from conventional training methods, offering a more sophisticated and scientifically-grounded approach to canine behavior modification.

At the heart of this methodology lies the recognition of what I call the "two minds" of the dog—the cognitive mind and the primal mind. This duality, rooted in the interplay between the prefrontal cortex and limbic system, forms the cornerstone of modern canine behavior understanding. Through careful observation and documentation of hundreds of cases, I've developed protocols that allow us to identify, influence, and maintain optimal brain states for learning. When we understand how to manage these states effectively, we can achieve behavioral changes that are both more profound and more sustainable than those obtained through traditional training methods.

The implications of this neuroscientific approach extend far beyond simple obedience training. By understanding the biological mechanisms that drive behavior—from neurotransmitter balance to cortisol management—we can create training environments that work with, rather than against, the dog's natural neurological processes. Throughout this article, I will guide you through the practical applications of these principles, sharing detailed protocols and case studies that demonstrate how this understanding transforms our ability to address complex behavioral challenges. When we shift our focus from external compliance to internal state management, we open new possibilities for creating lasting positive change in our dogs' lives.

Mind Over Manner: From Behavioral Conditioning to Cognitive Mind State Management
Personal Reflections, Animal Behavioral Sciene , Industry Topics
Bart De Gols
Rogue's Fight Against Gastric ...

Last Wednesday, what began as a routine day turned into a life-altering experience when my wife's German Shepherd, Rogue, developed Gastric Dilatation-Volvulus (GDV), a potentially fatal condition. As I was teaching a class in my barn, Rogue's increasing distress caught my attention. His whining escalated from mild to severe, and upon checking, I found his belly alarmingly distended. Recognizing the signs of GDV from my knowledge of canine health, I knew we were in a race against time. With my car in the shop, a client volunteered to drive us on the hour-long journey to the nearest emergency veterinary clinic. Every minute of that drive was filled with fear and uncertainty, knowing that GDV's mortality rate increases significantly with each passing hour.

In this article, I will explain the harrowing journey of Rogue's battle with GDV, from the emergency surgery to his challenging recovery in the ICU. I'll delve into the complexities of the surgical procedure, including how the surgeon managed to save Rogue's spleen despite finding blood clots. Moreover, I'll explore the science behind GDV, discussing its causes, risk factors, and prevention strategies. Drawing from our experience, I'll highlight the critical importance of early recognition and rapid response in GDV cases. The article will also cover the long-term implications of GDV, both physical and emotional, for both the dog and the owner. Finally, I'll share the valuable lessons learned from this ordeal and how it has transformed our approach to canine health care, hoping to raise awareness and potentially save other dogs' lives.

Rogue's Fight Against Gastric Dilatation-Volvulus
Animal Behavioral Sciene , Training Techniques, Behavior Modification, Anxiety Aggression Fear
Bart De Gols
The Blue-Eyed Puzzle: Unraveling the Genetic ...

The icy-blue or sky-colored eyes that captivate so many dog lovers are often accompanied by a higher incidence of anxiety, reactivity, and behavioral concerns compared to their brown-eyed counterparts. This observation isn't just anecdotal; it's supported by a growing body of scientific research and my own hands-on work with these breeds.

Currently, I'm working with two dogs in my board and train program that exemplify these challenges: Tater Tot, a mini Australian Shepherd, and Finnley, a Catahoula Leopard Dog. Both of these blue-eyed beauties are here to address severe anxiety, reactivity, and aggression issues. The striking similarity of their problems, despite their different breeds, has led me to delve deeper into the genetic underpinnings of these behavioral issues.

In this article, I aim to shed light on the genetic basis of blue eye color in these breeds, explore the link between sensory perception and behavior, and examine how these factors may contribute to heightened anxiety, reactivity to novel stimuli, and aggression towards people. It's crucial to understand that these dogs are not at fault for their challenging behaviors. Instead, their struggles often stem from genetic factors related to their distinctive eye color.

The Blue-Eyed Puzzle: Unraveling the Genetic and Behavioral Challenges of Tater Tot and Finnley
Animal Behavioral Sciene , Training Techniques, Behavior Modification
Bart De Gols
Choose Your Difficult Part 4: The Socialization ...

Many dog owners believe socialization is about exposing their dog to as many people, dogs, and environments as possible to create a friendly, outgoing pet. However, in **Part 4 of the "Choose Your Difficult"** series, I challenge this notion. While exposure is important, too much engagement often leads to overstimulation, reactivity, and anxiety. My philosophy focuses on raising a **neutral dog**—one that can observe the world around them without feeling compelled to react. A dog that remains calm, balanced, and focused on their handler is not only easier to manage but more emotionally secure.

In this article, I dive into the challenges and science behind socializing for neutrality rather than excitement. Overstimulation triggers stress, and many behavioral issues stem from a lack of emotional control. The difficult path is teaching your dog to be calm and neutral in the face of distractions, rather than chasing engagement or excitement. Though it takes effort, patience, and consistency, raising a neutral dog leads to a well-balanced companion who thrives in any situation, strengthening your bond in the process.

Choose Your Difficult Part 4: The Socialization Dilemma – Calm vs. Chaos in a World of Distractions

Personal Reflections

If You Love Dogs, Buy a Goldfish !

If You Love Dogs, Buy a Goldfish !

If you love dogs, buy a goldfish. It sounds counterintuitive, I know, but hear me out. Dogs are incredible creatures, full of personality, intelligence, and charm—but they’re not accessories, nor are they little humans in fur suits. Too often, we bring a dog home and expect it to fit into our lives as easily as a new couch or houseplant. We assume they’ll adapt to our schedules, tolerate every guest, and generally go with the flow, all while remaining endlessly loyal and affectionate. But dogs aren’t wired to live passively in our world. They need more than food, water, and a soft place to sleep. They need structure, guidance, and a bit of respect for who they truly are—animals with instincts and needs that don’t always align with our expectations.

In this article, I explore what it means to be a steward rather than a mere owner when it comes to dogs. Becoming a steward means understanding and meeting our dogs’ needs, recognizing that they are sentient beings with unique personalities and preferences. True stewardship goes beyond basic care and training; it’s about creating an environment where a dog feels secure, valued, and fulfilled. Dogs need routines that make sense to them, guidance that respects their instincts, and a life that offers more than just a passive existence in a human household. And if that sounds like too much responsibility, there’s no shame in choosing a pet that doesn’t require quite so much—like a goldfish, perhaps.

By the end, I hope to leave you with a deeper understanding of what dogs truly need to thrive and maybe a smile at the thought of swapping your dog for a simpler, less demanding companion. Because while a goldfish might offer peace and simplicity, it will never give you the kind of partnership, loyalty, and joy that a dog brings. So, are you a dog steward or more a goldfish-fishtank kind of person?

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Rogue's Fight Against Gastric Dilatation-Volvulus

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Rogue's Fight Against Gastric Dilatation-Volvulus

Last Wednesday, what began as a routine day turned into a life-altering experience when my wife's German Shepherd, Rogue, developed Gastric Dilatation-Volvulus (GDV), a potentially fatal condition. As I was teaching a class in my barn, Rogue's increasing distress caught my attention. His whining escalated from mild to severe, and upon checking, I found his belly alarmingly distended. Recognizing the signs of GDV from my knowledge of canine health, I knew we were in a race against time. With my car in the shop, a client volunteered to drive us on the hour-long journey to the nearest emergency veterinary clinic. Every minute of that drive was filled with fear and uncertainty, knowing that GDV's mortality rate increases significantly with each passing hour.

In this article, I will explain the harrowing journey of Rogue's battle with GDV, from the emergency surgery to his challenging recovery in the ICU. I'll delve into the complexities of the surgical procedure, including how the surgeon managed to save Rogue's spleen despite finding blood clots. Moreover, I'll explore the science behind GDV, discussing its causes, risk factors, and prevention strategies. Drawing from our experience, I'll highlight the critical importance of early recognition and rapid response in GDV cases. The article will also cover the long-term implications of GDV, both physical and emotional, for both the dog and the owner. Finally, I'll share the valuable lessons learned from this ordeal and how it has transformed our approach to canine health care, hoping to raise awareness and potentially save other dogs' lives.

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Choose Your Difficult: Navigating the Complex Choices of Dog Ownership - Part 2 Training

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Choose Your Difficult: Navigating the Complex Choices of Dog Ownership - Part 2 Training

In my ongoing series, "Choose Your Difficult: Navigating the Complex Choices of Dog Ownership," I've been exploring the many challenges that dog owners face and how the choices we make can have long-lasting effects on our dogs' behavior and our relationships with them. The core idea behind this series is the concept of "Choose Your Difficult," which emphasizes that every path we take in dog ownership comes with its own set of challenges. It’s not about finding an easy way out—because, frankly, there isn’t one. Instead, it’s about consciously choosing the challenges that align with your values and that will ultimately lead to the best outcomes for you and your dog.

In this second article, I will focus on one of the most crucial aspects of dog ownership—training. When it comes to training, the choice is often between investing time, effort, and consistency upfront or dealing with the long-term consequences of insufficient training later. This dilemma can be summed up simply: invest now or pay later. But within this dilemma lies another, deeper choice—the philosophy you choose to guide your training efforts. For me, that choice has always been relationship-based training. This method, though arguably the most challenging, is the one I believe leads to the most profound and rewarding bond between you and your dog.

The Pressure Behind the Passion: Emotional Challenges in Dog Training

The Pressure Behind the Passion: Emotional Challenges in Dog Training

In light of yet another suicide attempt by a fellow trainer and behaviorist, it's imperative that we address the profound emotional and mental challenges faced by those in our profession. This tragic event is a stark reminder of the pressures we endure, pressures that led to the loss of my late friend, Dr. Sophia Yin, who hung herself ten years ago. Dr. Yin was an incredible trainer whose life was cut short by the very stress and exhaustion described in this article. Beneath the surface of what many perceive as an idyllic job lies a profession fraught with emotional and mental challenges that are often overlooked.

Dog trainers face immense pressure from unrealistic expectations, with many dog owners believing that a few weeks of training can undo years of ingrained behaviors. This misconception places a heavy burden on trainers, who invest not just their time but also their emotions into helping these dogs. The emotional toll of seeing progress unravel due to owner negligence, coupled with the constant demand for immediate results and availability, leads to severe burnout. This article delves into these unseen struggles, shedding light on the emotional and mental exhaustion that comes with the territory of being a dog trainer.

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Why Do Good Dog Trainers Get Bad Reviews? 10 Eye-Opening Reasons

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Why Do Good Dog Trainers Get Bad Reviews? 10 Eye-Opening Reasons

Many highly skilled dog trainers are receiving poor reviews and negative feedback from clients after their dogs return home from intensive board and train programs or service dog training. At first glance, it may seem like the issue lies with the trainers themselves or the quality of their training methods. However, after careful analysis and observation, I've come to the conclusion that in most cases, the problem actually stems from the owners and handlers themselves.

In this article, I will explore ten key reasons why even the best trained dogs often quickly revert back to undesirable behaviors once they are back in their home environment, leading to frustration for both the owners and the trainers who worked so hard to help them. By understanding these common pitfalls, my hope is that dog owners can be better prepared to maintain their dog's training and create a harmonious household for all.

The Eternal Novice: Lessons from a Life Spent Learning at the Feet of Canines

The Eternal Novice: Lessons from a Life Spent Learning at the Feet of Canines

All of life is a learning expedition, a pilgrimage with no final destination. In this article, I reflect on the profound lessons gleaned from a lifetime of diverse pursuits - from the ocean depths as a pioneering technical diver, to the complex world of professional dog training, to the thrills and spills of adventure motorcycle riding. Through it all, three core principles emerge as universal guides: Embrace discomfort as a catalyst for growth. Cultivate a beginner's mind, staying perpetually open to new insights. And recognize that the richest rewards lie not in any fleeting achievement, but in the person we become through the process of passionate engagement.

These philosophies have been powerfully reinforced through the influence of extraordinary mentors. In my journey as an adventure motorcyclist, for instance, the masterful coaching of Bret Tkacs has been instrumental in helping me confront deep-seated fears and stretch my skills far beyond self-imposed limits. His guidance epitomizes the transformative power of apprenticeship - of being seen, challenged, and uplifted by someone further down the path. But equally profound are the insights sparked in collaboration with kindred spirits - fellow adventurers whose camaraderie and hard-won wisdom have salved and stretched me in equal measure. It's in the electric fusion of minds working as one to puzzle out a complex dog training conundrum, or in the soul-baring conversations shared around a campfire after an epic day of riding. These moments of connection stand as both cherished memories and powerful motivators, illuminating the fundamental truth that a life well-lived is one of perpetual discovery - of the world, of others, and of oneself.

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Winged Rats and Loyal Companions: Insights for Dog Owners from the Pigeon Story

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Winged Rats and Loyal Companions: Insights for Dog Owners from the Pigeon Story

As I delve deeper into the world of falconry, I've encountered a common perception among my peers who often refer to pigeons as "rats with wings." This derogatory term prompted me to reflect on the true story of pigeons, a story that is far richer and more complex than many realize. Pigeons, often dismissed as mere urban pests, have a profound history intertwined with human civilization. Domesticated over thousands of years, they have served us in remarkable ways—from sacred symbols and messengers in ancient civilizations to life-saving couriers during world wars. Their resilience and adaptability, despite being abandoned and vilified in modern cities, highlight the deep and often overlooked connections between humans and animals.

The story of pigeons underscores the importance of empathy and ethical treatment in all human-animal relationships. The lessons learned from their history remind us of our responsibility to care for the animals we domesticate and the far-reaching consequences of our actions. For dog owners and animal enthusiasts alike, this tale offers valuable insights into fostering compassionate and informed approaches to training and cohabitation with our animal companions. Understanding the pigeons' plight can help us approach our relationships with our pets, especially dogs, with greater empathy and responsibility, ensuring a harmonious coexistence.

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The Dangerous Delusion of Pet Gender Identity: Why We Must Reject This Pseudoscientific Trend

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The Dangerous Delusion of Pet Gender Identity: Why We Must Reject This Pseudoscientific Trend

🚨 The Dangerous Delusion of Pet Gender Identity 🐾

As a professional in canine behavior, I must address the alarming trend of applying human gender identity concepts to pets. The notion that "misgendering" a pet can cause "serious microsubconscious distress" and that pets communicate their "gender identity" through toy preferences or clothing reactions is not only scientifically baseless but also potentially harmful to the well-being of the animals in our care.

When we project human constructs like gender identity onto pets, we risk misinterpreting their behaviors and failing to meet their true needs. By focusing on "affirming" a presumed gender identity, pet owners may overlook genuine sources of distress and neglect evidence-based care. As responsible guardians, we must prioritize our pets' well-being over human social agendas and treat them as the unique animals they are. 🙏💡

Read more about the importance of rejecting pseudoscience and embracing a scientifically informed approach to pet care in my latest article

#PetWelfare #AnimalBehavior #ScienceOverSentiment

Bravo Maestro: How Mozart's Music Transforms the Human-Canine Bond

Bravo Maestro: How Mozart's Music Transforms the Human-Canine Bond

In this article, I delve into the profound connection between my professional life as a cynologist, deeply engaged in the rehabilitation of dogs, and my lifelong passion for classical music, spotlighted by last night’s  experience at the Oregon Symphony’s stirring rendition of Mozart’s Requiem. Conducted with zeal by David Danzmayr, this performance prompted me to contemplate the symbiotic relationship between the emotive power of Mozart’s unfinished masterpiece and the essence of my work with dogs. My adventure in classical music began at the young age of seven, when I would eagerly spend my after-school hours at a music academy in Aalst, immersing myself in the history of classical music and dedicating countless hours to learning the trumpet, piano, and organ.

Throughout my career as a cynologist, I’ve been privileged to witness the remarkable transformation in dogs, who, much like the emotive force of the Requiem, move from conditions of severe anxiety, fear, and reactivity to states of happiness and vitality. This process of transformation, driven by consistent patience and a firm belief in their potential for goodness, echoes the emotional depth and ambition of Mozart’s final work. This duality of purpose is personified in my relationship with Falca, my cherished K9 companion. Through shared experiences of adversity and success, Falca and I have cultivated a partnership defined by mutual trust, respect, and a concerted vision, showcasing the powerful and transformative bond that can be forged between humans and animals.

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In Dreams They Run: Unveiling the Mysteries of Canine Sleep

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In Dreams They Run: Unveiling the Mysteries of Canine Sleep

Have you ever wondered what your furry friend might be dreaming about as they twitch and whimper in their sleep? As a cynologist, I've long been fascinated by the mysteries of canine dreamscapes. In my latest article, "In Dreams They Run: Unveiling the Mysteries of Canine Sleep," I delve into the science behind dog dreams and explore what our beloved companions might be experiencing in their slumber.

Through the lens of my own 15-year-old German Shepherd, Falca, I examine the stages of canine sleep, the physical signs of dreaming, and the potential content of their dreams. By understanding the complexities of canine cognition and emotion, we can deepen our bond with our furry friends and provide them with the love, security, and comfort they need to thrive, both in their waking lives and in their dreams. Join me on this fascinating journey into the realm of canine dreams, and discover the rich emotional world of our loyal companions.

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Beyond Obedience: The Unanticipated Wisdom of a Dominant German Shepherd

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Beyond Obedience: The Unanticipated Wisdom of a Dominant German Shepherd

In the heart of my professional journey, nestled amidst years of traditional dog training methods, I encountered an unexpected teacher—a challenging German Shepherd named Junior. His defiance and complexity dismantled my firm beliefs in dominance and control, ushering in a transformative era of understanding and compassion in my approach to canine behavior. "Beyond Obedience: Lessons from an Unexpected Teacher in Dog Training" chronicles this profound shift, from the rigid frameworks of conventional training to the nuanced, empathetic interactions that truly honor the intelligence and individuality of each dog. Junior's journey was not just about overcoming aggression; it was a poignant lesson in the power of patience, the efficacy of positive reinforcement, and the deep, unspoken bond that forms when we listen more than we command.

As I navigated the tumultuous waters of behavior modification with Junior, every setback, every breakthrough, illuminated the limitations of established training paradigms and the vast possibilities that lay beyond them. In this personal reflection I delve into the heart of these revelations, showcasing how a single dog's resistance to traditional methods became the catalyst for a complete overhaul of my training philosophy. This narrative is more than a personal account; it's a testament to the transformative impact of education—both ours and our canine companions'—in fostering relationships built on mutual respect and understanding. Through Junior's story, I invite readers to rethink what it means to train a dog, advocating for a shift from a focus on obedience to a deeper, more meaningful connection that prepares us for the unexpected twists and turns of life with our four-legged friends.

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A Journey of Loyalty and Love: Caring for an Aging Warrior, K9 Falca

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A Journey of Loyalty and Love: Caring for an Aging Warrior, K9 Falca

In this article and personal reflection, I delve into the enriching journey I have shared with K9 Falca, a narrative that not only highlights her exceptional service as a working dog but also underscores the essence of resilience, love, and dignity in her golden years. Falca's story is a poignant celebration of a life filled with purpose, passion, and an indomitable spirit. By attentively addressing her evolving needs and savoring each moment together, we not only pay tribute to her remarkable legacy but also ensure her senior years are as vibrant and fulfilling as the countless seasons we've navigated side by side. This commitment to her well-being involves implementing specific care tips tailored for aging canines, such as regular veterinary check-ups, a nutritious diet suited to her changing health requirements, gentle exercise to maintain her physical health without straining her aging body, and comfortable living arrangements that accommodate her comfort and mobility needs.

The deep connection I share with Falca has profoundly influenced my approach to canine training and care, illuminating the transformative power of love and mutual respect. This relationship, built on an intense foundation of trust and understanding, has taught me invaluable lessons about the importance of empathy, patience, and innovation in meeting the unique challenges presented by an aging K9 companion. These lessons extend beyond the realm of canine training, reminding us of the critical importance of nurturing deep, empathetic, and trusting relationships in all areas of life. Through honoring Falca's enduring spirit and her legacy of love, we are encouraged to incorporate these values into our own lives, ensuring that the care we provide for our aging companions reflects the depth of our bond and the profound impact they have had on our lives. By sharing these care tips and reflecting on the lessons learned from Falca's journey, we hope to inspire others to provide the best possible care for their aging K9 heroes, ensuring their later years are filled with the love, dignity, and respect they so richly deserve.

From the ocean’s depths to the Leash: An odyssey Trough Deep Sea Mysteries and Canine Minds

From the ocean’s depths to the Leash: An odyssey Trough Deep Sea Mysteries and Canine Minds

In this personal reflection, my journey from the shadowy depths of the ocean to the expressive gaze of our canine companions has been a profound exploration of both the unknown and the deeply familiar. Starting as an extreme exploration and experimental diver, I was drawn into the silent, mysterious world beneath the sea's surface, where each dive represented a venture into the unknown, challenging human endurance and technological limits against nature's raw, unforgiving forces. However, this path of exploration took an unexpected turn as I shifted from marine to canine realms. Yet, the essence of my quest remained unchanged—a relentless pursuit of connection, understanding, and the expansion of knowledge. The "Into the Twilight Zone" expedition in Manado Tua, Indonesia, stands as a pinnacle in my journey, where as the chairman of a joint National Geographic mission, I led the exploration to uncover secrets of the Coelacanth, a creature thought extinct, revealing the power of human curiosity and our relentless pursuit of uncovering the mysteries that lie in uncharted territories.

This expedition was a precursor to my dive into Cynology, the scientific study of dogs, where I applied the same principles of exploration and innovation to understand the complex world of canine behavior and psychology. The transition from exploring the depths of the ocean to delving into the intricacies of dog behavior was not merely a change in focus but a continuation of my exploration into the unknown. In both realms, I learned the importance of patience, non-verbal communication, trust, and teamwork—lessons that became the foundation of my work in Cynology. This journey has not only expanded our understanding of the world beneath the waves and the canine companions by our sides but has also highlighted the interconnectedness of all life, underscoring the importance of empathy, compassion, and a profound respect for nature's mysteries. My exploration has been a testament to the idea that seeking understanding and building connections across the natural world can reveal the extraordinary in the everyday, reminding us of our shared desire for connection and our capacity to live in harmony with the natural world.

From Leash to Heart: The Dynamics of Respect and Reciprocity with Our Canine Friends

From Leash to Heart: The Dynamics of Respect and Reciprocity with Our Canine Friends

In this article, I delve into the fascinating parallels between our relationships with humans and our bonds with canine companions, highlighting how these connections intertwine personal affection with a form of implicit professional respect. This intricate tapestry mirrors the complexities of friendship and professionalism, revealing that just as we may playfully seek free advice from a friend, we similarly impose expectations on our dogs without fully recognizing the inherent contract of respect and reciprocity. Such oversight not only undermines the value of their contributions but also risks commodifying the sacred bond shared between human and canine, reflecting a broader theme of respect and mutual understanding in all relationships.

At the heart of our connection with dogs lies an unspoken bond that transcends the barriers of language and species, encapsulating the highest ideals of friendship as contemplated by philosophers like Aristotle. Dogs offer us unwavering loyalty and unconditional love, valuing us for who we truly are, not for the treats in our pockets or the warmth of our beds. However, when we begin to take their loyalty and services for granted, failing to properly train, appreciate, or compensate them, we risk reducing this sacred bond to a one-sided expectation. This mirrors the ethical misstep of exploiting a friend’s professional expertise without proper recognition or reciprocation. Through understanding and embracing the principle of reciprocity, we honor the dignity of our dogs' contributions and nurture a relationship that is both mutually beneficial and deeply fulfilling, showcasing the complex and rewarding nature of companionship in its purest form.

Embracing the Bark of Ignorance: A Humbling Tale of Knowing Nothing About Dogs

Embracing the Bark of Ignorance: A Humbling Tale of Knowing Nothing About Dogs

The ten thousand hour rule, widely propagated as the key to achieving mastery in any field, has captivated the imaginations of countless individuals seeking to excel in their chosen pursuits. This principle has been presented as a straightforward path to expertise, whether one aspires to be a virtuoso violinist, a master chef, or a renowned painter. However, with over three decades dedicated to studying and engaging with Canis lupus familiaris (our domesticated dogs), Canis lupus (the enigmatic wolf), and the broader Canidae family, I've come to a stark realization. This journey through the intricate world of animal behavior has illuminated just how little I've managed to uncover; it's as if I've only just begun to explore an ever-deepening abyss.

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TikTok Trainers: Choosing the best for your dog!

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TikTok Trainers: Choosing the best for your dog!

In the age of the internet, where a 20-second TikTok video can make anyone an overnight sensation, dog training has become something of a Wild West. A few well-angled shots of a sleek, state-of-the-art facility, complete with mood lighting and a latte machine for the two-legged clients, and suddenly your local dog trainer is less 'Old MacDonald' and more 'Hollywood.' The social media dog whisperers and TikTok tail-wagging trendsetters. Armed with smartphones and an endless supply of treats, they turn dog training into a spectacle of snappy edits and charismatic captions. Their videos, full of wagging tails and perfect pooch pirouettes, can make you feel like you're one click away from turning your beloved barker into a furry Einstein. In this article I touch an a sensitive subject: likes and followers vs Instruction.

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Who's Training Whom? “The Canine Comedy of Accidental Education”

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Who's Training Whom? “The Canine Comedy of Accidental Education”

Every dog owner unwittingly doubles as a professor in the school of Pavlovian Pooches, often granting diplomas in subjects like Advanced Doorbell Barking and Intro to Leash Tug-of-War. This tongue-in-cheek exploration delves into the comedic mishaps of classical conditioning in daily dog ownership and suggests a shift towards the more deliberate approach of operant conditioning. It's time to stop scratching our heads when Fido freaks out at the sight of our sneakers and start scratching behind his ears for the right reasons. In this humor filled article I explain why we need to “De-Pavlov” ourselves and increase our “Skinnarian” powers.

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Doggy Doors Debunked: A Closer Look at Training Complications and Home Risks

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Doggy Doors Debunked: A Closer Look at Training Complications and Home Risks

Doggy doors, though convenient for pet owners, can inadvertently lead to a host of behavioral and security issues in dogs. In this article I explain the negative effects associated with the use of both traditional and electronic doggy doors, including challenges in house-training, increased territorial behavior, and potential security risks for the household.

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Paws and Seatbelts: The Critical Need for Crash-Tested Dog Crates

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Paws and Seatbelts: The Critical Need for Crash-Tested Dog Crates

The open road beckons to many pet owners who wish to explore the world with their four-legged friends. However, the excitement of these adventures must be tempered with a commitment to safety. Dogs, much like humans, require proper restraint inside a vehicle to protect them and others in case of an accident. This article explores the dire consequences of transporting dogs without proper restraint and advocates for the use of crash-tested crates, detailing the legal and safety implications, as well as providing guidance for responsible pet ownership during travel.

Canine Companions and the Journey of Self-Discovery: A Christmas Eve Reflection

Canine Companions and the Journey of Self-Discovery: A Christmas Eve Reflection

On this joyous Christmas Eve, as we gather to celebrate the spirit of love and companionship, I am reminded of the profound connection between our canine companions and the journey together. In this enigmatic relationship, a beautiful revelation emerges – the growth and evolution of our beloved dogs are intricately interwoven with our own personal development and enlightenment. It transcends the mere mechanics of imparting commands or cues; it delves into the realms of profound understanding, unwavering patience, and profound communication.

Our canine friends, astute observers by nature, are finely attuned to our emotional fluctuations, behavioral patterns, and even the most nuanced subtleties of our interactions. They not only mirror our explicit communication but also absorb the energy we emit. Therefore, the journey to elevate our dogs commences with an introspective examination of ourselves, for they are reflections of our inner states.